Mario Rojas, a 53-year-old resident of Visalia, was diagnosed with Stage 3 rectal cancer in January 2023. His diagnosis meant a grueling series of treatments far from home, and he was left wondering where he and his wife, Angie, could stay during this difficult time. With the prospect of undergoing chemotherapy at Stanford Cancer Medical Center, over 200 miles away, Mario was faced with the overwhelming costs of accommodations in the Bay Area.

In the midst of this uncertainty, JW House appeared as a beacon of hope. Mario stayed at JW House during his first round of chemotherapy, and it immediately became a place of comfort and healing for him. "The staff and volunteers have been incredibly kind and supportive," Mario said. "When I first came to JW House, I was in so much pain, confusion, and fear about my diagnosis, but the warm atmosphere and comfortable environment made me feel at home."

For Mario, the care he received extended beyond medical treatment. Having access to nutritious meals, a comfortable bed, and a supportive community made all the difference in his cancer journey. He expressed deep gratitude for the donors and volunteers who helped make JW House possible. "Your donations have touched my life and my family’s life. JW House is a blessing—to good to be true."

In July of 2024, Mario transitioned to the JW House apartment, where he stayed for five and a half weeks while undergoing daily radiation therapy, five consecutive days a week. Due to his cancer diagnosis, both Mario and his wife have been unable to work, creating additional financial challenges. JW House was able to accommodate them with a safe and affordable place to stay, offering a vital lifeline during this time of need.

As of September, Mario has returned to stay at JW House every Monday while completing the remaining four cycles of chemotherapy, with treatments expected to continue through November. Despite the challenges ahead, Mario’s spirits remain high, thanks to the unwavering support he has received from the community. We wish Mario all the best as he continues his treatment, and we are honored to walk alongside him on this journey toward healing.